Scholarly Commentary

Introduction

DGR's coarse sonnet is one of the most autobiographically revealing texts we have from him.
A classic example of sexist prurience, the lines are all the more valuable for the
unguarded character of their expression. Needless to say, and as DGR's comment on the lines indicates (see his letter to WMR of 8 October 1849,
where DGR sent the sonnet to his brother), he had no intention of seeing the sonnet pass beyond his brother's ken (or perhaps his brother and
some of the PRB brethren as well).

Textual History: Composition

The sonnet was composed around 7 October 1849.

Printing History

First printed by WMR, in an expurgated text, in
1911. First unexpurgated printing is in
Fredeman,
Correspondence
49. 18
.